Jakaiyah Franklin

2025

Killeen, TX

Academic Interests

Biology, Global Health, & Environmental Science

Fun Fact

I loved watching Modern Family growing up, and it led to the point that I can quote entire episodes. 

I am from multiple places because I am a military kid, but I currently live in Houston, Texas. I am majoring in biology to study infectious diseases. I love learning about new diseases, and I am passionate about helping people. Therefore, it is my goal to become an infectious disease specialist. As for my hobbies, I like to read and play the Sims 4. I have had multiple research experiences while at Duke. My newest experience was cancer research at the University of Miami. To help with my science communication skills, I partake in writing research blogs for Duke Research Blog. 

What do you like about being a SPIRE Fellow?

I like the support that being a fellow has provided. With the directors and my cohort, I know that I have a great support system here at Duke. Furthermore, being a fellow has provided me with opportunities that have benefitted my academic career. 

Jakaiyah Franklin
Jakaiyah Franklin